Ancient Northumbria

Ancient Northumbria The very north eastern corner of Northumberland, between the historic towns of Berwick-on-Tweed and Alnwick on the Scottish border. It is a designated heritage coastline with a fabulous array of attractions. This is a region bearing testament to bloody battles of centuries long ago. Skim over the sands and causeway to Holy Island, cut off twice-daily from the rest of the world by fast-moving tides. Both an island and a picturesque village, Holy Island contains a wealth of history within it’s tidal walls.

Day 1

Travel down to Northumberland where we will take a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railway before arriving at our hotel

Day 2

Holy Island of Lindisfarne & Visitor centre (full day) We start with a visit to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, lying just a few miles off the Northumberland coast. Only accessible twice a day at low tide, this beautifully unspoilt island is where Christianity first took hold in Britain and is also home to a picturesque 16th-century castle and an array of wildlife. Including entry to visitor’s centre

Day 3

Visit to Etal Country Estate & Banburgh Castle Ford & Etal is one of rural Northumberland’s best kept secrets. Home to the Joicey family for over 100 years, this working estate has fascinating heritage attractions, beautiful countryside to explore, tempting places to eat, drink and shop and a welcoming range of accommodation. The Estates lie in the valley of the River Till, just a few miles inland from Holy Island and Bamburgh. Close to the Scottish border this green and pleasant land is dotted with castles and battlefields, highlighting long centuries of conflict. Today it is farmed and managed much as it has always been, and life is still ruled by the seasons. Banburgh Castle A castle like no other Experience Northumberland at a different level with a visit to magnificent Bamburgh Castle, England’s finest coastal castle. Towering 150 feet above the coast with outstanding sea views, come and explore nine acres of unique Northumberland with a history dating back thousands of years..

Day 4

Today we visit Alnwick Castle & Gardens The Alnwick Garden is a complex of formal gardens adjacent to Alnwick Castle in the town of Alnwick, Northumberland, England. The gardens have a long history under the dukes of Northumberland but fell into disrepair until revived at the turn of the 21st century. The garden now features various themed plantings designed around a central water cascade. The revival of the gardens led to several public disputes between the Duchess of Northumberland and various garden experts concerning preservation and the use of public funds. The garden now belongs to a charitable trust, which is separate from Northumberland Estates, although the 12th Duke of Northumberland donated the 42-acre site and contributed £9 million towards redevelopment costs.

Day 5

After a leisurely breakfast we will load the coach and start our journey home.

Hotel Sandman signature 4*

With a sports bar and grill restaurant, this hotel has a fitness centre and modern rooms with free Wi-Fi. Sandman Signature Hotel Newcastle is next to St James’ Park, home of Newcastle FC.

Included

Return coach travel.
All excursions as described.
4 nights half board

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